Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders Recipe

Frozen chicken tenders: Pre-packaged, breaded chicken tenders that are stored in the freezer section of your supermarket. They come in various brands and flavors, so pick your favorite.

To ensure your chicken tenders come out crispy and evenly cooked, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate properly around each piece. If you have a large batch, cook them in multiple rounds. Additionally, lightly spraying the tenders with cooking oil before cooking can enhance their crispiness.

• frozen chicken tenders - Substitute with fresh chicken tenders: Fresh chicken tenders can be seasoned and breaded to your preference, providing a fresher taste and texture.

• frozen chicken tenders - Substitute with tofu tenders: Tofu tenders are a great plant-based alternative that can be seasoned and breaded similarly to chicken tenders.

• frozen chicken tenders - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower florets can be breaded and air-fried to create a vegetarian option that mimics the texture of chicken tenders.

• frozen chicken tenders - Substitute with fish sticks: Fish sticks provide a different protein source and can be cooked similarly in the air fryer for a crispy exterior.

• frozen chicken tenders - Substitute with seitan strips: Seitan strips are a high-protein, meat-like substitute that can be seasoned and breaded to resemble chicken tenders.

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a container, ensure it has a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness.
• If you plan to store them for more than a couple of days, consider wrapping each chicken tender individually in parchment paper or aluminum foil before placing them in the container. This helps maintain their crispiness.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• Store the chicken tenders in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
• To freeze, lay the chicken tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the chicken tenders to a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken tenders in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and heated through.

• Use an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until they are hot and crispy.

• For a quick method, use a microwave. Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth. Note: This method may result in less crispy tenders.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders on the rack or a baking sheet. Heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are thoroughly heated and crispy.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the chicken tenders in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are heated through and have a nice crisp.

• Air fryer: A countertop appliance that circulates hot air to cook food, giving it a crispy texture similar to frying without using much oil.

• Tongs: A utensil used to flip and handle the chicken tenders without burning your hands.

• Meat thermometer: A device to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders to ensure they are fully cooked.

• Plate: A flat dish used to place the cooked chicken tenders once they are done.

• Paper towels: Used to blot any excess oil from the chicken tenders after cooking.

Preheat while prepping: Start preheating your air fryer while you arrange the frozen chicken tenders in the basket to save a few minutes.

Single layer placement: Ensure the chicken tenders are in a single layer to cook evenly and avoid extra time flipping or rearranging.

Check doneness early: Check the chicken tenders for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overcooking and save time.

Batch cooking: If you have a large air fryer, cook multiple batches at once to save time for future meals.